About Cockroach Bites
Despite what many believe, cockroaches are not generally known to bite humans. Being omnivores, and one of the most infamous natural scavengers, cockroaches will, however, feed on almost anything - whether meat or plant based.
There was once a dark rumour that cockroaches will eat human flesh, whether dead or living. We can, fortunately, confirm that human flesh does not make up part of a cockroach's staple diet.
In the rare event that a cockroach does try to bite you, you will feel a nip. A bite from one of these pests will normally cause some irritation and swelling of the affected area, but seldom will a cockroach bite cause more of a problem than this.
If you are unfortunate enough to be bitten by a cockroach, it is unlikely to become a regular event, as humans are not a core food source for the bugs.
Cockroach Bites Look Like
- Small red raised bumps, usually 1-4mm
- Often on hands, face or eyelids
- May appear in twos or threes near each other
- Mildly itchy but usually not painful
Pests That Bite More Often
- Bed bug bites: often in lines on torso, neck, arms
- Flea bites: on ankles and lower legs, very itchy
- Mosquito bites: raised welts, immediate itching
- Cockroach bites: rare, smaller, often on face or hands
Pests That Bite
If you are being bitten regularly, there are a few other pests that could be the culprit. The most common biting insects in the UK are bed bugs and fleas. These parasites will feed on the blood of the host and bite at any chance given.
Additionally, ladybirds, carpet beetles and mites are also known to bite humans.
People often confuse a bed bug infestation with cockroaches, so if you find yourself being bitten regularly, it is unlikely cockroaches are the problem. Work through where the bites appear on your body, how soon you noticed them, and what time of year it is - the answers tell you which pest you are dealing with.
Getting Rid of Cockroaches
Whether your problem is cockroaches or another pest, JG Pest Control provides a professional guaranteed eradication service. Leaders in the industry for heat treatments for insects and chemical treatments for cockroaches, you can trust us to get rid of your problem.
If you are being bitten by cockroaches, the infestation is at the point where DIY treatment is unlikely to succeed. Call our RSPH (BPCA) Level 2 certified and trainee techs for a same-day survey. We treat the colony and the harbourage points - not just the visible insects.